Residents warned against bears

BANDAR LAMPUNG, Lampung: Tanggamus regency authorities have alerted residents of villages in Teluk Semaka near the Bukit Barisan National Park, against further attacks by wild bears.

Antara quoted Tamanuri, the regency's spokesman, as saying that bears have already forayed four villages in the area, and preyed on more than 200 cattle. Residents of Sedayu, Tugu Papak, Kacapura, and Sukaraja have been gripped by fear.

Tamanuri said the area is often attacked by wild elephants, but this is the first attack by bears. He suggested that residents arm themselves with torches and make noises in order to scare away bears. (swe)